BWW Reviews: 'I OF THE STORM' IS A SURGE OF LIFE LESSONS at The Playroom Theater

A look at life's lessons are at the core of the one-man play "I of the Storm."

A one-man play is a tough act. Many have attempted it. Not all succeed. The latter is not the case with "I of the Storm" - a spectacular show that takes the audience on a journey of self-discovery.

Richard Hoehler does a splendid job of captivating the audience through his enthralling performance and look into his life.

The fact that Hoehler's performance is so strong throughout the entire show is a remarkable feat. Not once does he lose the audience. The feelings of nostalgia, love-lost, hope, peace, content - and the countless other emotions - that Hoehler encompasses with natural ease, all while engaging the audience through his brilliant interpretation of the character, is the utmost proof of a great actor.

Hoehler's character seems to talk specifically to you, eager to share his view on life and self-discovery.

Detailing his descent from successful businessman to his stint serving time for a white-collar crime to homelessness, Hoehler's character takes you on a personal journey that ended with him being jobless, homeless, wifeless and friendless. Though his situation may seem bleak, the character is liberated and feels as if he found the essence of life - taking time to enjoy it by not being preoccupied with money, responsibilities, negativity and what society deems important. Hoehler's character spends his days sharing his poetry with passersby and encouraging them to focus on not being consumed by their jobs and going through the daily motions without taking time to just appreciate the present and one's surroundings. He urges them to seek the opportunity, enjoy and truly experience life, be grateful and have a more positive outlook as opposed to being jaded by all the negativity in the world.

Love and friendship is also a poignant topic touched upon in "I of the Storm." The idea that love and friendship is so fundamental to human nature that it transcends life is at the center of the purest and strongest of human relationships.

A thirty-something free spirit named Mars - who Hoehler's character references is, ultimately, his hero - befriending him after hearing him reciting his poetry at the park he calls "home." Mars, as it turns out, is Hoehler's character's muse. A person he considers part daughter and part platonic love. They are partners in crime in their joie de vivre. The relationship shaped Hoehler's character in the deepest of ways. Mars is a vital part of Hoehler's character's redemption and new view on life.

This unmatched performance by Hoehler is a definite must-see.

RJ Bartholomew did an incomparable job writing the play. The fact that Bartholomew touched upon such poignant lessons in such a charismatic, fresh way - as if with ease - is absolutely worthy of admiration. There were times when the writing seemed as if it were meant for a poetry jam - contemporary, fresh, and captivating.

The setting and costumes are perfect for the play. They were kept simple as to not to take away from the important lessons the play aims to share with the audience.

"I of the Storm" is directed by Janice L. Goldberg and presented by Deep End Productions. Joan Racho-Jansen is the show's technical director. The creative team includes Mark Michael Abrams (lights), Symczak (sets), Sean W. Sellers (costumes), and Craig Lenti (sound).

Performances are Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday at 2:00 p.m. at The Playroom Theater (151 West 46th Street, located on the 8th floor). Tickets are $30.00 and can be purchased online at http://www.IoftheStormOffBroadway.com.

The show runs through April 29.

Photo credit: Hunter Canning.